Why The Police Is Deploying Officers To JAMB Centres Nationwide

The Nigeria Police Force has intensified security presence across all Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board Examination centres nationwide ahead of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

According to Force Public Relations Officer Anthony Placid, the move is aimed at ensuring a safe and orderly environment for candidates sitting for the exams.

Responding to circulating concerns, the police stated: “The Nigeria Police Force wishes to categorically state that these claims are without basis. While the force does not act on rumours, the concerns raised by the public have been duly noted, as it concerns the safety, education, and future of our children and wards.”

Reasons Behind Police Presence at JAMB Centres

The deployment is part of broader efforts to strengthen security and maintain order throughout the examination period. Authorities noted that officers have been positioned both visibly and discreetly to prevent disruptions and respond quickly to any threats.

“To this end, extra security has been deployed at examination centres nationwide both overtly and covertly, with a view to preventing any untoward incidents,” the statement added.

Additional strategies include patrols, perimeter surveillance, and rapid-response teams stationed at strategic locations. The police also confirmed collaboration with other security agencies, warning that: “Any individual or group attempting to disrupt the examination process will be swiftly identified and brought to justice.”

Candidates were advised to arrive early, follow exam guidelines, and report suspicious activity, while the public was urged to ignore unverified social media reports and rely on official updates.

Ogun State Strengthens Security Across CBT Centres

In Ogun State, the police command has rolled out extensive security arrangements across 72 accredited Computer-Based Test centres for the 2026 UTME scheduled between April 16 and 25. The spokesperson, Oluseyi Babaseyi, said the deployment is based on intelligence-led strategies to ensure safety and order.

He explained that the plan focuses on visible policing, early threat detection, and rapid response throughout the exam period. “In line with the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, psc, FCSS, MNIPR, all Area Commanders within jurisdictions hosting CBT centres have been placed on heightened operational alert and directed to take full charge of security management within their areas.

“They are to ensure strict supervision of deployed personnel, sustained patrols around examination environments, and close coordination with Divisional Police Officers, tactical teams, and JAMB officials to ensure seamless conduct of the exercise.

“The Command further warns that any attempt to engage in examination malpractice, impersonation, or any form of disorderly conduct will be met with swift and decisive action, including arrest and prosecution”.

Ondo State Implements Coordinated Security Measures for UTME

Similarly, the police command in Ondo State has deployed personnel and operational assets to all JAMB CBT centres across the state. According to spokesperson Abayomi Jimoh, the measure is designed to ensure the exams proceed without disruption.

“This proactive measure is in strict compliance with the directive of the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu. The IGP emphasised the need for a robust security presence at all examination centres nationwide to prevent any form of disruption, malpractice, or criminal activity.

“The deployed personnel have been strategically positioned to provide access control, crowd management, traffic regulation, and rapid response to any emerging situation within and around the examination centres.

“Area commanders, divisional police officers, and tactical teams have also been directed to intensify patrols and surveillance in their respective areas of responsibility to ensure total coverage and effectiveness. The command wishes to reassure candidates, parents, and guardians of its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property,” he said.

Candidates and parents were also advised to comply with guidelines, avoid overcrowding, and cooperate with security personnel to ensure a smooth examination process.